Ayahuasca, an ancient Amazonian psychedelic brew, is increasingly studied for its effects on personal growth and mental health. Many participants report profound transformation, reduced anxiety, and a deeper connection with themselves and the world. But how can these changes be measured?

 

This pilot study used the NETI (Non-dual Embodiment Thematic Inventory), a psychological assessment that evaluates key qualities such as:

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Inner peace and mental calm

Connection with others and nature

Authenticity and spontaneity in relationships

Reduced fear and anxiety in daily life

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The Study and Method

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A total of 216 participants attended a retreat at the Paojilhuasca Ancestral Medicine Center, in a controlled and safe environment. During the retreat, participants:

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Followed a traditional Amazonian diet (dietary and behavioural restrictions to prepare body and mind).

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Participated in nightly ayahuasca ceremonies, guided by experienced shamans.

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Completed the NETI test before and after the retreat; a small group also responded several weeks later.

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Key Results

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After the retreat, the average NETI score increased by 13 points on a scale of 20 to 100.

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The most significant improvements were observed in:

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Inner peace – Greater mental tranquility and reduced inner noise.

Reduced fear and anxiety – Worries felt lighter, and many reported feeling safer and more serene. Authenticity and vitality – Participants felt more “genuine,” less constrained by social masks, and had more energy for life.

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Who Benefited the Most?

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Young participants (under 30) → Showed the strongest growth, likely due to greater openness to change.

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People with depression or anxiety → Significant improvements in self-esteem, social connection, and reduced fear.

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Those who followed the Amazonian diet → Scored higher than those who did not.

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Participants with near-death experiences (NDEs) → Already had higher NETI scores before the retreat but continued to improve.

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Where Did the Benefits Fade Over Time?

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Sense of connection with everything (nondual experience) → Immediately after the retreat, many reported a deep sense of unity with the world and less ego-identification. However, this effect tended to diminish over the following weeks, especially for those who did not practice meditation or integration techniques.

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Unconditional peace → After the retreat, many felt profound inner peace, independent of external circumstances. Over time, maintaining this state became more challenging without consistent effort.

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Intense gratitude and joy → During and right after the retreat, many reported deep gratitude for life. However, some found it difficult to sustain this feeling long-term, especially when returning to a stressful routine.

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Who Benefited the Least?​

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People over 55 → While they showed improvements, their change was less pronounced compared to younger participants.

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Those who did not engage in integration practices after the retreat → Without support (meditation, sharing groups, therapy), benefits tended to fade more quickly.

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People with psychotic disorders or schizophrenia → Struggled to manage the experience and did not show improvements.

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Effects on Different Psychological Conditions

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Depression → Strong improvements in hope and self-esteem. For some, it was a major turning point.

 

Anxiety and panic attacks → Helped many reduce fears and manage emotions better. The feeling of “letting go of control” during ceremonies had long-term benefits.

 

PTSD and trauma → Allowed participants to reprocess painful events in a positive way, reducing emotional distress.

 

Bipolar disorder → Showed moderate improvements. Some participants reported a period of hyperactivity after the retreat, highlighting the need for careful integration.

 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) → Some reported increased spontaneity, but changes were less significant compared to other conditions.

 

Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders → Generally, effects were negative or destabilizing for those with a history of psychosis, confirming that ayahuasca is not suitable for these individuals.

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What Do These Results Mean?

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Ayahuasca can be a powerful tool for personal growth, particularly for those with anxiety, depression, or trauma.

 

The environment and preparation matter: The retreat setting and Amazonian diet enhance the experience.

 

Benefits are real but require maintenance: Without integration practices, some positive effects tend to fade over time.

 

It’s not for everyone: Those with psychotic disorders should avoid it.

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Conclusion

 

Ayahuasca can open the door to greater awareness, inner peace, and a deeper connection with life. However, true growth happens afterward—integrating the experience through daily practices like meditation, journaling, or support groups is essential.

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As Amazonian shamans say:

“Ayahuasca opens the door, but you must walk through it.”